What we do with information we take during a search

The Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) has the power, under its legislation, to carry out unannounced searches of business premises and private homes, on foot of a search warrant issued by the District Court.

The aim of carrying out a search is to uncover evidence relating to an investigation being carried out by the CCPC. It is possible that, during a search, the CCPC may seize or copy material that contains private personal information. In order to protect such information – that is, information that is not related to the person’s work or business – the CCPC has adopted a protocol.

This protocol outlines the safeguards put in place by the CCPC to protect the privacy rights of businesses and individuals when material is taken during the course of an unannounced search.